Illustrations of the Book of Job.

22 pure line engravings by William Blake on copper comprising a title page and 21 plates. First edition, the rarest state being one of only 65 proofs on French paper. All prints on large paper c 41 x 27 cms in book mounts and housed in a handsome large purple cloth clamshell box with a black morocco label stamped in gilt on the upper cover. William Blake, No.3 Fountain Court, Strand, March 8 1825, actually published 1826.

Considered to be Blake’s masterpieces as a printmaker and one of his greatest achievements. As Ray writes in the Illustrator and the Book in England, “the modest size of the central panels does not prevent them from ranking with the supreme masterpieces of graphic art”.
The title page, along with the borders of each plate, were added after the central images. The title page isn’t numbered by the others are in the top right hand corner. All the plates are dated March 8, 1825 except Plate 1 which is mistakenly dated 1828.
This edition of 65 proofs on French paper is the rarest of the three states. There were also 100 copies on wove paper without the word proof and 150 copies on India paper.

Very good, well-defined impressions with depth. Some of the usual light foxing to a few of the plates, most pronounced on plate 17 but a very attractive set.